A meaty affair

Whether it's served medium or rare, the steaks at Porterhouse Steaks & Grills in Sofitel Dubai The Palm are all well done

Any carnivore with a healthy appetite is sure to enjoy, what we can without a doubt say, is one of the most succulent steaks in town at Porterhouse Steaks & Grills at the Sofitel Dubai The Palm. It's a bit of a drive, but well worth it.
The moment you enter the hotel's impressive driveway, you feel warmly welcomed by the 'overly' helpful staff. And unlike other smoky steakhouses where the aroma of grilled meat hits your olfactory senses, Porterhouse is spacious, uncluttered and has a sophisticated interior. The warm lighting gives the dining experience a romantic touch.
While their tenderloins and T-bones, served with sides of rosemary-roasted potatoes, stir-fried veggies and delectable Béarnaise and pepper sauces, were of the highest order, their caramelised Granny Smith apple crumble too was worthy of applause. It is no wonder  that it is considered one of Dubai's favourite steak houses.
And if you happen to be a vegetarian, fret not. There are a number of options from lasagne to a vegetable mille-feuille. Plant-lovers, on the other hand, should take a walk down the corridor near the entrance of the eatery, where they'll be stunned by the vertical garden there. With plants and shrubs covering the entire wall, it's a sight for sore eyes.  

Taste - It is Porterhouse's signature steaks that give them the edge. From seared Australian grain-fed Angus Porterhouse steaks to juicy American prime tenderloin Chateaubriands, they have a distinctive flavour. The excellent texture can be attributed to the marbling in the cuts.

Ambience - The interiors are expansive, well-lit and have a sophisticated feel. The
warm lighting creates a calming ambience. Add to that some soft, piped jazz classics and the setting is perfect to unwind and a prelude to an exquisite fine dining experience.

Service - The staff were courteous, always at hand and did not hesitate or have to go back to the kitchen to seek answers when queried about the food. Service was prompt and the waiting time between each course wasn't lengthy. Also, the service was almost noiseless.

Presentation - Unlike fusion dishes, steaks generally do not need elaborate presentation. Its true test is its texture and taste and Porterhouse was impressive on those counts. Nevertheless, the 'fuss-free' meats were generously garnished with herb butter which enhanced the flavour.

Value for money - While prices are above average, you are paying for quality meat from around the world. A signature steak, weighing 1.2kg costs Dh622. If you find that price hefty, a steak from their grill starts at Dh217 and goes up to Dh512 for a 350gm tenderloin with a side and sauce.

AT A GLANCE
Porterhouse Steaks & Grills, Sofitel Dubai The Palm, East Crescent Road, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai
Cost for two: Dh600 (approx.)
Rating: 4/5
michael@khaleejtimes.com

• Food and Dining